Steel Across America: Tunnel to Towers Foundation Commemorates 25 Years Since 9/11 at The Long Center for the Performing Arts in Austin, Texas

The tour will next visit the Texarkana Post Office & Federal Building in Texarkana, Texas on June 3. 

TEXARKANA, TEXAS [June 2, 2026] — On Tuesday, June 2nd, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation’s ‘Steel Across America’ tour visited The Long Center for the Performing Arts in Austin, Texas. 

For the twelfth stop on a nationwide tour in honor of the 25^th anniversary of 9/11, Steel Across America brought a steel beam recovered from the World Trade Center to Austin, offering Long Center visitors and local community members a rare opportunity to experience this sacred artifact firsthand. 

Retired FDNY Lieutenant and Tunnel to Towers Foundation Board Member Jack Kielty kicked off the ceremony with the cueing of the Ceremonial performed by the Austin Fire Department Color Guard and National Anthem performed by Austin Police Department’s Todd Galbraith. Kielty introduced Austin Police Department’s Chaplain Ken Farmer and Father Richard Daly who led the ceremonial blessing of the steel and invocation. Kielty formally introduced the steel beam and its significance on the Steel Across America tour, followed by a moment of silence, and a rendition of Amazing Grace. 

Kielty shared personal remarks reflecting on the meaning of the Steel Across America tour before sharing shout outs to individuals in attendance and introducing Executive Director of UBS Jeffrey Bidstrup. Bidstrup bid a hospitable welcome to the Steel Across America tour on behalf of Austin and expressed his gratitude for being invited to participate in the day’s events.  

Kielty then introduced Austin Police Department Commander Corey Wroblewski, who delivered remarks on the 25 years that have passed since the events of September 11^th, 2001, and how the effects of that day continue to be felt in every corner of the nation.  

Austin Fire Department Fire Chief Joel Baker then took the stage, addressing the crowd about bravery, sacrifice, and brotherhood. Baker underscored that the bravery and dedication of first responders on September 11^th made all the difference during a time of need – and how our job is to never forget their impact.  

Kielty invited Stephen Siller Jr., son of fallen FDNY firefighter Stephen Siller, to address the crowd, where he reflected on his father’s legacy and the mission that drives the Tunnel to Towers Foundation’s cross-country journey. 

“We’re grateful to the entire team at the Long Center for hosting this tour and welcoming us on behalf of Austin. Our time in Texas has been wonderful thus far,” said Stephen Siller Jr., son of fallen FDNY firefighter Stephen Siller. “The Long Center is all about bringing the community together for a powerful shared experience. We hope that today’s attendees feel the palpable sense of togetherness that Steel Across America brings with it wherever it travels.” 

As part of the ceremonial proceedings, Stephen Siller Jr. presented a commemorative steel flag to 

Austin Fire Department Fire Chief Joel Baker and Austin Police Department Commander Corey Wroblewski in recognition of Austin’s hospitality in hosting the Steel Across America tour during its Texas leg. The custom-built flag features the New York City skyline with the Twin Towers standing tall, incorporating World Trade Center steel — presented only to those who demonstrate honorable dedication to the Foundation’s mission. 

Following the formal program, the steel beam was made available for all guests to approach and reflect upon, and attendees enjoyed a locally catered lunch. 

The steel is an everlasting reminder of the selfless courage and service of first responders who gave their lives on September 11, 2001, including New York City firefighter Stephen Siller. Recovered from Ground Zero in the days following the attacks by the thousands of first responders who answered the call, the beam stands as a symbol of sacrifice, resilience, and the unbreakable American spirit that emerged from tragedy. 

The media kit containing photo and video assets from Austin can be found here. 

On June 3^rd, Steel Across America will make its next official stop at the Texarkana Post Office & Federal building in Texarkana, TX.